Kabeirion, Lemnos

About the museum

The Kabeirion lay near Hephaestia and was linked with the myth of fire. The sanctuary took its name from the Kabeiroi, spirits associated with underground fire and mining work, who were believed to cause earthquakes and fires.

The Kabeiric Mysteries were celebrated once a year after sunset and lasted nine days. Anyone could take part in the initiation, free and slave alike. The rites included animal sacrifices, libations and offerings, while the festival of Porphyria represented the discovery of fire. The ruins of the sanctuaries survive on two terraces and give a good picture of how the rites were carried out. On the summit of the hill traces of a tall wall can be seen, which was built to conceal the rites from the rest of the island.

Highlights

• Mystery sanctuary of the Kabeiroi
• Ruins of the sanctuaries on two terraces
• Traces of a tall wall on the summit of the hill

Operated by

Υπουργείο Πολιτισμού – Εφορεία Αρχαιοτήτων Λέσβου

Admission & discounts

Free admission: 6 March, 18 April, 18 May, the last weekend of September, 28 October, and the first and third Sunday of each month from 1 November to 31 March.

Accessibility

• Wheelchair accessible
• Elevator: no information
• Accessible restroom: no information
• Accessible parking: no information
• Service dogs welcome: no information
• Tactile models & exhibits: no information
• Sign language tours: no information
• Easy-to-read materials: no information
• Audio description: no information

The site is described as accessible for people with disabilities.

Kids & families

The museum hasn’t published any information on this.

Getting there & parking

From the village of Agios Alexandros the site is about 5 minutes by car.

Amenities & dining

On site there are toilets and a car park.

Events & venue rental

The museum hasn’t published any information on this.